Date of Award
Summer 8-17-2026
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Kinesiology (EdD)
Department
Kinesiology
First Advisor
Angelina Winkler
Second Advisor
Michael Thomas
Third Advisor
Joshua Smith
Abstract
This study investigated the impact of aerobic exercise on cognitive function, anxiety and depression in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Using a quasi – experimental design, the data were collected from 11 participants from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in an assisted living nursing home with mild to early – stage Alzheimer’s disease. This study was conducted over a 15 – week period. The experimental group (n=7) participated in 150 – minutes per week of chair fitness or cardio dancing while. The control group (n=4) maintained their usual daily routines. Cognitive function was tested using a Montreal Cognitive Assessment at the baseline and post – intervention, as well as the Five - Minute Cognitive Test at weeks 3, 6, 9, and 12. An Anxiety and Depression Questionnaire was also administered before and after the intervention. The findings indicate that regular moderate – intensity aerobic exercise may help improve or maintain cognitive function in individuals with mild or early -stage Alzheimer’s disease.